Buzz
Hydro dipping has become immensely popular as an exciting and creative method to adorn your belongings with captivating designs. Whether it's water bottles, sneakers, or skateboards, hydro dipping can imbue your favorite items with a vibrant burst of color that is sure to catch everyone's eye. If you're eager to showcase your stunning homemade designs, you're in luck. Below, we provide a comprehensive explanation of the entire hydro dipping process. Keep reading to learn more!
Steps
Hydro Dipping Using Spray Paint
Collect Your Supplies. Kickstart the hydro dipping process by determining the item you want to paint. Then, select your paint colors and locate a waterproof container large enough to hold the object. You can opt for a single color of spray paint or experiment with multiple colors to create intricate designs using a disposable wooden stick. Additionally, procure spray sealant (readily available at art or hardware stores) to seal your colorful design onto the object post-hydro dipping, along with protective gloves.
- The plastic container should have ample space to prevent overflow when the item is submerged. Consider using buckets, large plastic storage containers, or feed tubs.
- To protect the container from paint, consider lining it with plastic sheeting before adding water.
Prepare the painting space. Opt for an outdoor setup, like your driveway or lawn, to avoid the smell of spray paint lingering indoors. Ensure all necessary items are easily accessible as the hydro dipping process can be swift. Fill your container with lukewarm or warm water, as spray paint adheres best within a temperature range of 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 10 to 32 degrees Celsius).
- If indoors, open windows and doors, and cover nearby furniture with plastic sheeting.
- Keep children and pets away from the area during painting.
Apply a primer coat. If certain spots on the object are missed during dipping, apply a base coat color. Use spray paint to cover the entire surface and allow it to dry for 2-3 hours before hydro dipping.
Release paint onto the water. Shake spray paint cans thoroughly before use. Hold the can 10 to 12 inches (approximately 25-30 cm) from the water's surface and spray until coated. Alternate colors as desired to create unique patterns.
- Colors will naturally blend on the water's surface. Use a clean wooden stick to swirl colors for smaller patterns.
Immerse the object in the paint-water mixture. Wear gloves and ensure the object is clean. Submerge it slowly and then lift it out gradually.
- To prevent a second coat of paint altering the swirl pattern, part the paint on the water's surface before removing the object. Having assistance can be helpful for this step!
Allow the object to dry. Place it on a plastic sheet or cardboard to air dry. Ensure it is completely dry before handling, leaving it for several hours. If drying indoors, keep it in a secure area away from children or pets.
Preserve your hydro dip artwork. Maintain the pristine appearance of your hydro dip paint by applying a clear, spray sealant. Available in matte, semi-gloss, or gloss finish, this sealant can be found in hardware stores. Apply an even coat over the painted object and allow it to dry for several hours. Only apply the sealant once the object is fully dry.
Opting for a Hydro Dipping Kit
Invest in a kit. Explore online options for home hydro dip kits, offering the convenience of transferring specific prints or designs onto 3-D objects without specialized equipment. Typically, these kits provide various design choices for customization. A standard home hydro dip kit typically includes:
- Patterned film
- Activator
- Top coat
- Basecoat
- Universal primer
Select an appropriate container. Most DIY kits don't include a container for the dipping process. Choose a watertight container made of plastic, glass, or aluminum, ensuring it's deep enough to fully immerse the object. It should also provide sufficient space, leaving 5-6 inches (approximately 12-15 cm) between the container's edge and the object.
Prepare the item. Ensure the item is clean and free of debris before dipping. Use the primer supplied in your kit to coat the item, applying enough for coverage without causing runs. Apply 1-2 light coats of the base coat spray from your kit, then allow the item to dry for one to two hours.
- Prior to primer and base coat application, use masking tape to block off areas you don't want the image to print on.
- Don't skip the primer—it helps the image adhere properly, ensuring durability and longevity.
Measure and cut the film. Determine the size needed to cover your object, adding 4-5 inches (approximately 12-15 cm) on each side. Cut the film accordingly, ensuring it stays dry to prevent warping.
- Secure the edges with masking tape to prevent rolling.
Prepare the container. Fill the container with hot (not boiling) water, about ¾ full. Hold the film like a sling, bringing opposite sides together. Lower the film onto the water's surface, starting from the middle and gradually flattening it out.
Activate the film. Let the film hydrate for sixty seconds, then evenly spray the activator provided in your kit. Within 5-10 seconds, the film should turn into liquid ink on the water's surface, expanding to cover the container.
- Activated film will appear glossy and fully cover the water's surface.
Dip your object. Submerge your item at a 45-degree angle, ensuring even coverage. Maintain fluid movements as you dip the item into the ink. Remember to wear gloves throughout the dipping process.
- If gloves aren't included in your kit, be sure to purchase a pair before starting.
Rinse the item. Carefully remove the item from the water, avoiding rubbing its surface. Rinse it under cold water for approximately 3 minutes to remove any residual PVA.
Coat with the top layer. Once the item has dried, apply a uniform layer of the aerosol top coat spray included in your kit. Allow the item to dry before adding subsequent coats until the desired finish is achieved.
